Ali Farka Touré-Allah Uya

Some songs grow on you over time while others become an instant hit.  This one belonged to the second category for me.  Yesterday I heard a small clipping of this song as an interlude between two programs on NPR.  Those 10 seconds were enough for me to fall in love with the tune.  Once I heard the whole, it didn't disappoint.  In the last 24 hours I must have listened to the song about 15-20 times - carrying my iPad whereever I went, including grocery shopping.

I like it because...this song, as many others of its genre, seem to contain something of an indian melody but with a unique african warmth that is very pleasing.  It sounds like it is based on some raga - though I can't tell which one.  The simple and beautiful melody, the repetition,Touré's dexterous guitar playing and his laid-back voice made for an intoxicating effect.  If you caught me swaying to his music while driving or walking, you'd understand why, if you also listen to it.  No wonder that Touré (1939-2006) is a world famous artist, though I just discovered him now.  He was noticed on the world stage in 1994 and was ranked in the top 100 artists of all time by Rollingstone.


I don't have a clue about the lyrics or the meaning of the song, but having Allah in it makes me think it is in praise of God.  I must have some strange genes to be this influenced by songs that praise God without actually believing in Him.